I had a chance to experience first hand the work of Miracles in Action (MIA)when I went to Guatemala with the founder of MIA, Penny Rambacher in June 2021. I assisted in 4 workshops that MIA held for health promoters and local women to teach about nutrition for infants and children. The teaching materials MIA has created are excellent. Penny has created a strong team of Guatemalans including Andrea a nutritionist and Jose who handles media for MIA including videos and helping with the website. While with Penny I observed how she networks and supports other NGOs working in Guatemala who have similar missions related to health, education and nutrition. MIA is really making a difference in Guatemala. Once I had this chance to see the work MIA is doing, my husband and I became monthly donors and I highly recommend MIA as a nonprofit that is doing meaningful work to address some of the difficult problems in Guatemala.
Sue Krauter MD (veteran for a number of medical missions in Guatemala so I have a good understanding of the country and the difficult issues Guatemalans face.)
My connection to Miracles in Action goes back to the year 2000 and a chance meeting between my mother and Penny and her mother in Guatemala City. Since then, I've supported Penny and her mission and toured many of the schools she's built. Though our connection started with education, now we share a deep desire to improve nutrition among the poorest of Guatemalans. Penny & her organization have inspired big ideas and help bring them to fruition!
I have work with Miracles in action for the past 6 years and I love to be able to help people in my own country. I couldn't choose a better organization to support and get involved.
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I have been working with this amazing charity for more than 5 years. Their work is impactful to mothers, families and children in Guatemala, helping them to improve their quality of their live.
Through all the challenges of Covid-19 in Guatemala, Miracles in Action has persisted in educating mothers and health professionals in nutrition as well as supported other NGOs in nutrition and education. I’m proud of the work that Miracles in Action does in the most rural areas of Guatemala.
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I live in Guatemala year round and see many non-profits. Miracles n Action caught my heart and respect as it does work in the truly remote areas with some of the neediest people. I've been with Miracles to the mountains of Chiantla where the terrain is barren, the wind brutally cold and the people are wrapped in towels for shawls. They wanted a teacher for Pre School children. A community nearby built their own school...and desks! They wanted a new building. These are people willing to make their lives better and want a hand up, not a handout. Miracles looks for and supports projects that work!
I have worked with Miracles in Action and many other non-profits over the past 25 years, MIA always impresses me. They are so dedicated to their mission and to improving the lives of those they serve in Guatemala. From schools to nutrition, they are the read deal. Their legacy will long out live any of us. They are changing generations to come... all for the better.
Sue Huff
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An amazing nonprofit organization that has gotten more things accomplished than most even dream of doing. Not only do they build schools, they help other NPOs with nutrition training and more. I've seen them in Action. An amazing organization.
I have known Penny and her organization for over a decade. I have watched her build schools and contribute to preschool programs and distribute filters for water in for a real communities. She has raised personally nearly all of the funds needed for these projects. Guatemala is much better off due to her efforts.
I have collaborated with this organization for over a decade.
The Director and I first met when I was helping her by making little movies, and it ended up that she helped me ever so much more to make our project successful. That collaboration resulted in ongoing support as well as helping us expand through a significant start up of a new aspect of our program, which was not without risk.
She is very thorough she doesn't go into agreements without a lot of thought and then does a lot of follow up to ensure that the investments are used well. She also manages the administrative costs of her own projects very well.
She is devoted to the children of Guatemala, well beyond just getting the projects completed.She even uses her "House of Miracles" home as a center for nonprofits to meet and even to stay overnight.
I've been supporting this organization for 11 years and I am in awe how it gets the aid right to the people in need with out wasting funds. Just amazing work for women and families.
Great organization supporting other worthy nonprofits who are making a tangible impact on the ground in Guateamala
Miracles in Action innovates and delivers solutions for families and children in need!
With over 15 years working in Guatemala, Penny and her team understand Guatemala and its challenges. I love how all their programs always have a vision for sustainability and an educational component. For example, Miracles in Action made recipe books to address the HUGE problem of complementary feeding - 1 in 2 children under two are chronically malnourished. The recipe books use local ingredients that are affordable and accessible to families living below the poverty line. In addition, they are so graphic that moms who can't read will be able to use them, which means that they work for different Mayan populations who speak their own language. That's such a great example of outstanding innovation and empowerment for long-term impact.
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With COVID-19, many Guatemalan families' can't feed their kids anymore. So, Miracles in Action immediately worked on how to get thousands of care packages to hungry families. Even more impressively, they created crucial videos of "Dr. Chapin" who responds in simple language to essential questions about COVID-19. These videos are translated into local Mayan languages to inform families who are cut off traditional streams of information. These videos and care packages gave thousands of families the information they need to protect themselves and their families and essentials food to survive the peak of this crisis.
And this is just a small example of what they manage to do in no time on top of all their other long-term projects. I love their willingness always to innovate and truly consider what is best for the people. I've been living in Guatemala for over three years now and was seeing a lot of the work that Miracles in Action do first hand. If you would like to make an impact, I strongly recommend this charity to do it.
I have worked as a volunteer with Miracles in Action for over 10 years. We work to improve education, nutrition and create jobs. It is a first class non-profit that makes a difference in our world
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Over a decade ago I attended a lecture at The Norris Center in Naples, Florida. Our speaker, Penny Rambacher, opened our heads and hearts to the dedicated work that she is doing in Guatemala.The stories of the women and children in need inspired me to immediately offer my help.
I work at the markets here in Naples where we sell our beautiful beaded jewelry and woven products.
Led by our talented founder, Penny, we are a team of passionate volunteers dedicated to Miracles In Action.
Our work continues to improve the lives of the people of Guatemala!
Sharen Thomas
Naples, FL
I have been involved with this Charity since it began and have seen the impact it has made on thousands of lives in Guatemala. Schools have been built. Clean water has been made available in many villages. Stoves have been installed in homes replacing the smoky fire pits used previously. Better nutrition has been taught and implemented. COVID-19 aid has been donated. Cottage industry by women making beaded jewelry is supported. And every $$ donated goes to support the people in Guatemala. Truly a worthy Charity.
Great cause, inspiring leadership and a meaningful impact make Miracles in Action one of our favorite non-profits to support. We feel connected to the good being done by this organization and admire how each dollar is put to work!
After making donations to Miracles In Action over the course of several years, we were able to visit Guatemala to see some of the excellent efforts and successes of the organization. As a former Peace Corps volunteer in Central America for two+ years, I had lived in Guatemala for three years, speak Spanish, and understand the culture reasonably well.
Was especially impressed by the efficiency and effectiveness of the programs. For example, their efforts to provide inexpensive water treatment filters to so many homes is crucial. Water quality in the region is poor, but directly tied to infant mortality, chronic illnesses (from parasites bacteria etc.), and the quality of life of women and girls. With the filters Miracles in Action has provided to families they are sick less, children attend school more, and (women and girls) can spend less time just trying to find clean water every single day of their lives. This is a simple, yet huge improvement to their lives -- and it's only one example of the agency's programs.
MIA is an extraordinary charity that has a direct impact on improving the lives of so many families in Guatemala. I have witnessed first hand the powerful impact of MIA’s efforts in making life better for those in great need.
Ive helped MIA for years, most recently with bead sales at art festivals. All the funds go to essential projects focusing on education and nutrition.
5 star all the way!
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Love that this organization helps people help themselves. They are affiliated with other organizations to find the best way to make use of the money they get. Concerned and caring staff.
Miracles in Action is changing lives for the poorest of the poor in Guatemala. Dedicated to the belief that education is the best way out of poverty, Miracles has built 57 schools. Miracles has continued it support in sustainable ways through women's economic empowerment and nutrition projects. 15 years of continuous miracles! So happy to be a part of this extraordinary organization.
As the Mother of 4 children who were adopted form Guatemala, I was so happy to find Penny and Miracles in Action. I love being able to give back to my children’s birth country in a way that I know is actually reaching the people who need it most!
Building schools, helping children and communities. Such a great organization!
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I love that this organization began with one person. One person that was not only willing to SEE extreme poverty while on vacation, but one person that DID SOMETHING about what they saw.
It is amazing what a difference one person can make. So many schools! So many lives touched.
Thank you Penny and your amazing Mom, for starting this remarkable organization.
Miracles in Action is a remarkable nonprofit that donates 100% of all donations to very carefully selected, outstanding nonprofits located in rural areas of Guatemala. They are very well run and impactful. Join them now!
Amazing people who care about the communities that they help! One of the best experiences in my life was opening a school with Miracles in Action!
I think the best way to know this charity is to watch a video on how it came about. A mother and daughter who could not look away when they experienced Extreme Poverty (defined as when every day is a struggle just to be alive. No water, food or shelter.) This is a poverty that does not exist in the US or any developed country. We have safety nets to prevent this level of poverty - food stamps, soup kitchens, neighbors and churches that are able to help poor people in the US. In Guatemala there are no safety nets, and people die, or try to come to the US to get work, earn a living and send their money back home to help their family.
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As Founder and a dedicated volunteer Director, there are several achievements that I am proud to tell you. We are an all volunteer non-profit oganization, where 100% of the donations go directly to projects, none to salaries and overhead. I office at home and keep expenses low. Any operational expenses are covered by the income we make in selling handicrafts made in Guatemala in the Mayan women's cottage industry. Selling handicrafts is the #1 fun, easy, and profitable activity that our volunteers enjoy. Not only does it raise funds for "Miracles", but it provides an income to the women making these beautiful things. Additionally, we apply the extra money made in sales to stoves, school supplies and other projects to help the women artisans - going beyond fair trade. Another achievement that I am proud to share is that in 6 years we funded the construction of 29 rural primary schools in the mountains of Guatemala, the installation of over 1600 safe vented stoves, 20 water systems, and 100s of water purifiers - all projects meeting our mission of helping poor families to help themselves.
What a beautiful organization that not only offers aid to the needs of the impoverished, but actually walks along side of them to enable and equip them which can transform their very lives. So proud to donate to their work and vision! Linda and Bill Merrick
I traveled to Guatemala for the dedication of a special needs school sponsored by Miracles In Action in June 2019. Seeing the children and families who would benefit from the school and getting to talk with them was incredible and impactful. It was very rewarding and reaffirming to see the results of our donations!
Miracles in Action started with a dream that all kids in Guatemala would have the basics--a school to learn from and the right food to eat. Miracles has built nearly 60 schools in Guatemala, distributed thousands of water filters, farm animals and packets of school supplies, and helped Mayan artisans create products that Miracles in Action buys at fair trade prices and sells in the US. But given Miracles in Action's dream, the work hasn't stopped there. They have also found some of the highest impact startup projects on nutrition in Guatemala and supported them. From healthy snacks being sold in stores, materials to support the use of native plants like Chaya, to supporting producing and selling more nutritious corn seeds (super corn), Miracles in Action has been at the forefront of making a major difference in Guatemala.
This is a truly outstanding nonprofit that has funded the construction of 57 rural schools in Guatemala! They also support vocational schools leading to jobs, and preschool education, and buy handicrafts made in the local cottage industry so women can earn an income from home while taking care of their families. Miracles In Action is a nonprofit that is effective and creates a long-lasting impact in communities across Guatemala - keep up the good work!!!
Excellent charity that we have had the privilege of working and traveling to Guatemala with. Hard working, ethical members who truly want to help the Mayan people.
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We have encouraged, donated to and volunteered with this charity over the years. They are doing great work in Guatemala and I can highly recommend supporting their cause.
A most impressive nonprofit that embodies the spirit of teaching a person how to fish instead of giving them a fish. In addition, 100% of all donations go to the cause because all administrative costs are funded through the sale of products made by indigenous people.
A small foundation having a high impact on education, health and the advacement of women in poor indigenous Guatemalan communities.
My wife and I have known and supported Penny Rambacher and Miracles in Action (MIA) as volunteers and supporters since its inception. Penny is an exceptionally dedicated worker for and supporter of the indigenous people of Guatemala. MIA does an extraordinary job of providing a “hand up” as opposed to “hand outs.” The Guatemalans touched by MIA include the women who are provided with the materials and training to do beading which is marketed in the United States with all profits returned to the women, many of whom are supporting their families; the children in remote villages who have the opportunity for continuing education thanks to the over 50 schools funded and built by MIA; the reintroduction of native plants to local diets through planting and education; nutrition education; and on the ground work with other NGOs in support of Guatemalan indigenous needs.
Bought some beautiful crafts from the Marco Island Farmer's Market I was greeted by friendly, enthusiastic volunteers and was well informed about the organization. The merchandise was so well made and the details were incredible. I was more than happy to support such an amazing cause.
I love that Miracles in Action sees the value in and focuses on education! Such a wonderful organization.
There couldn't be a better name for this organization. I had the opportunity to work with them as a volunteer. I was deeply inspired by the work they do for poverty stricken families in Guatemala. The founder, Penny Rambacher has a special gift. Her energy, knowledge and inspiration to help others less fortunate is overwhelming. The organization sells handicrafts made by the artisans in Guatemala and the profits fund many projects there. They have built more than 54 schools . They have programs to educate these people to help themselves have a better way of life. Solar lights, stoves and water filters are supplied to these families. Agriculture programs are put in place. They create classes for women to learn about birth control, and having respect for themselves. I had a wonderful opportunity to visit Guatemala and travel to a remote village for a school opening. It was truly an eye opening experience. Gracious people, beautiful children who are so thrilled to have visitors. We brought them each a book and a knapsack. They were so gracious with big smiles and pointed at my camera and said photo. It made me think of many children who have so much but want more. It touched my heart. What a wonderful experience I was able to have and will never forget. I still help Miracles when I am able to. Giving back is something everyone should experience. Thank you Penny you have truly been my inspiration. Marcia McCarthy
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By chance I came across Miracles in Action at an event in Naples. They were selling beautiful crafts handmade by the Mayan women in Guatemala. I purchased some beautiful jewelry and was then introduced to the founder of miracles. She began to tell me the story behind her organization and how it started. It deeply touched me as my eyes filled with tears. A few weeks later I called her and became a volunteer. The difference Miracles in Action has made to the families in Guatemala is certainly a miracle but as you know people make miracles. I have been working with a wonderful group of people with big hearts whose mission is miracles and they have certainly made many happen Share their story at miraclesinaction.org. Any purchase will help a family and child in need. Marcia
I love that Miracles in Action allows it's donors to chose exactly where their money is going. I was able to give the gift of a women's hygiene kit which was filled with items that as a woman, I take for granted on a daily basis.
I've had an amazing experience with Miracles In Action and have seen the real impact it has had in Guatemala helping communities in much need of education, nutrition, and other support. These families are soo grateful and I don't know what they would do without Miracles in Action!
Watching this organization give to these women warms my heart! So proud to be a contributor and look forward to helping where I can!
As a former Peace Corps Volunteer and a holder of an International Studies degree, I can attest the development work Miracles In Action does alongside various reputable partner charities both in-country and within the states is remarkable. Rather than focusing on handouts, Miracles In Action does an incredible job with sustainable development, giving those in need the opportunity to help themselves.
Lucky me-- I had the opportunity to tour multiple MIA projects in Guatemala in spring of 2018, and to see first hand the positive impact that MIA has on improving the lives of people there. Most encouraging: MIA's work is allowing Guatemalans to be able to have dreams and aspirations that were not previously realistic or attainable. I witnessed people both dreaming and achieving their dreams. The need in Guatemala is high, and MIA's impact is dramatic.
I became aquainted with Miracles In Action through a mutual friend of the founder, Penny Rambacher. Having done service trips myself to Central America, I was really excited about the extensive work which she continues to do in Guatemala to improve lives. Again, seeing the founder speak at a gathering, I inquired and shortly thereafter began volunteering at local farmers markets in the Naples area and at events. I found a special ease among the founder and other volunteers at these gatherings in that we all had a common purpose, giving our efforts to allow others opportunities to escape extreme poverty.
This was one of the most inspiring experiences of my recent visit to SW Florida. Keri' s extensive knowledge of all things BIRD & her obvious understanding & empathy for the magnificent parrots that she has rescued and provides a home for moved me in so many ways.
Truly performs Miracles in the lives of Guatemalans living in extreme poverty. They teach people to help themselves through sustainable projects that center on education, nutrition, skills and creating jobs. This charity runs from the heart of everyday people that dedicate their time to make a difference.
I had the pleasure of meeting the founder and a board member of Miracles in Action on a trip to Guatemala last year. Both were so compassionate about their work. It was inspiring. I was extremely impressed with both of their knowledge about the areas of their work, along with the projects they are working on. I really enjoyed being a part of their conversations about the work they were doing with their artisans.
-Lisa Krigsman, Associate Director, Limitless Horizons Ixil
For many years Penny, and Miracles in Action, have been wonderful supporters of Limitless Horizons Ixil. The support we have received for our Saber Sin Limites (Limitless Knowledge) Community Library has opened the door to 100’s of community members since 2010. MIA has done such great things supporting improvements in areas of health, education, and agriculture. We are honored to have them as partners.
-Katie Morrow, Executive Director, Limitless Horizons Ixil
This is an amazing charity. Where else can every cent you donate go to whatever project you pick? Where else can you go see the school you sponsored open? Where else can you see the homes you sponsored a stove or pure water? I love Miracles in Action.
Penny has dedicated her life to provide supplies and education to poor remote starving villages. She's taught them skills to not only survive but to empower them to be self sufficient. Penny is our contemporary Mother Teresa, she is the Saint of Guatemala.
I have witnessed first hand since 2005 and repetivly up to last month the hard and diligent work that Miracles in Action continues. Miracles in Action is smoothly and passionately managed by founder Penny Rambacher. She shares her joy generously and inspires many many others.
I have worked with Penny and MIA for about 10 years and marvel everyday about this charity. It is run by a terrific founder and dedicated volunteers . This charity is blessed with putting the welfare of the Guatemalan people first. I have worked mainly with selling jewelry and have also traveled to Guatemala to see and experience the benefits of MIA . Marlys
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I have been volunteering for MIA for many years and can honestly say it's one of the best nonprofits around. It continues to grow its Ideas for the Guatemalan people by implementing new and diverse projects every year. Schools are continuing to be built with an agricultural training center/school to be completed soon. The Founder, Penny is a devoted, skilled , faithful committed leader who works tirelessly and has a contagious personality.
I've had the pleasure of working with this excellent organization since it's inception. Often donors wonder about the true impact of their contribution. Not so with Miracles in Action where 100 percent of your donation goes directly to the cause. Overhead expenses are covered through special donations and handicraft sales. This is a rare, but highly effective business model. This charity creates substantive change in the communities it serves and I've been fortunate to see that firsthand. In an area faced with crushing poverty and limited opportunities, Miracles in Action is truly a blessing.
As professor, dean, and president of various colleges, I have worked with a huge number of foundations over the last fifty years. Miracles in Action is as impressive as any foundation with which I have ever worked. The founder and director, Penny Rambacher, is not only deeply committed to the highest ideals that define Miracles in Action; she is also an inspired and prodigiously accomplished leader and administrator.
I learned about the foundation when a young Guatemalan immigrant whom I was tutoring in English shared with me his dream of returning to his small Mayan village in order to significantly improve the life of the people in his very impoverished village. He wanted to start an educational community center that would, among other things, provide classroom space for his village's pre-school program, which currently must meet outdoors because there is no available classroom space, and he also wanted to upgrade the basic facilities at his village's tiny and poorly equipped schoolhouse. Since I now live in southwest Florida I did some research and discovered that in nearby Naples there is a foundation called Miracles in Action, whose mission is to help the impoverished people of Guatemala, especially with educational projects. Immediately after I contacted the foundation, the director Penny responded enthusiastically and agreed to meet with me and this young Guatemalan man I have been tutoring. Penny has handled every aspect of our cooperative work with professionalism, intelligence, promptness, and the kind of humane personal concern that marks only the very best directors of foundations. Our work together is progressing and there is now a real possibility that Miracles in Action can make this young man's dream a reality by building an addition onto the school in his village.
The first thing Penny did was to dispatch an expert in Guatemala to visit this young man's village and meet with the community and educational leaders to do a site assessment. At every step along the way I have been impressed by the thoroughness and promptness of the way MIA does business and especially by the rare and invaluable caring touch that they bring to their work. This is a first rate foundation in every way, and the work they have already done has had a huge positive impact on the daily lives of thousands of needy Guatemalans.
Miracles in Action is the "perfect non-profit" from a donor perspective. Further proof -- donors become volunteers because of the power of the story. Year after year Miracles in Action grows and expands to better define and create workable solutions for the endemic educational and health challenges poverty brings to the people of Guatemala. Founder Penny Rambacher has dedicated her life - drawing on extensive business and personal expertise - combining heart and strategic skills. The people of Guatemala are getting a hands up, not a hand-out thru the Miracles in Action programs to build schools, support nutrition and farming training, and give women the chance to earn money to support their families thru fair trade handicrafts. The later provides the resources for Miracles in Action administrative costs, allowing all donations to go to another school or training program.
I became acquainted with Penny Rambacher and Miracles in Action through Bosom Buddies in Naples FL. To help myself through breast cancer and help others, I knit dozens of warm hats for the children. It was a very rewarding experience to receive photos of them wearing my hats. Unfortunately my hands have given up on me. Nevertheless I follow them and revel in the outstanding success of this organization. What is so notable is that when you give, you see the fruits of your effort immediately in the lives of these wonderful people who are so appreciative. I cannot say enough about the organization and the people behind it for the Miracles they perform. This little girl is wearing one of my hats. What a darling.
Penny's work has brought hope to so many families in Guatemala. From providing schools to clean water, from cottage industries of sewing and beadwork -- the impact will be a positive unstoppable force!
Miracles in Action and its founder Penny Rambacher are helping those living in extreme poverty to help themselves through a hand up not a hand out. When we help those help themselves solve for very basic needs like safe water, education, and nutrition, we all can thrive. Families will then stay together, they will uplift their neighbors, their village, and their country.
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With thousands of Guatemalan immigrants coming to the US to escape extreme poverty, Miracles is giving a hand up versus a hand out. I have been volunteering for Miracles in Action for 10 years watching the founder, Penny Rambacher, fund and build 50+ schools, water filtration systems, safe stoves,implement nutrition programs, and provide the extreme poor an opportunity to receive fair wages for their handicrafts. Teaching the people of Guatemala to help themselves is the ultimate gift.
Miracles in action is an amazing organization that really focuses on empowering people to change their lives! Super dedicated organization that is making a huge difference in the lives of indigenous Guatemalans. I'm impressed by their hard work and the transparency of the organizations that they partner with. Every dollar is stretched as far as it can go!
Penny made a presentation at my church and I was impressed by her story and the work she's accomplished in Guatemala. Miracles in Action has greatly improved the lives of the many people it has touched.
Miracles in Action does a tremendous job not only supporting the Mayan people and culture of Guatemala, but also educating other people around the globe on the needs of these beautiful and friendly people. My life has developed greater fulfillment thanks to Penny Rambacker and Miracles in Action.
For many years, first as a volunteer and now as a Board member, I have experienced Miracles in Action doing just that...making miracles of change in some of the most impoverished areas of Guatemala. Working closely with quality grassroots organizations, MIA is committed to creating self sustaining projects that educate and empower the local population. Whether helping to build schools, provide job training , promote fair trade ,clean water and healthy nutrition , MIA is having a significant and lasting impact on alleviating poverty and improving the lives of the indigenous of Guatemala.
My charity organization has partnered with Miracles in Action numerous times over 5 years. They have been integral in helping our chosen indigenous village in a remote mountainous area of Guatemala. They have stepped up quickly, generously and with great passion and critical follow up. They have made it possible to provide a school, a retaining wall to protect the school, vented stoves, clean filtered water buckets, scholarships and much more.
I volunteer now for this organization in order to raise funds for their incredible projects. I admire their philosophy to provide a hand up, not a hand out.
I love that this charity helps women to earn income from their homes by buying their beaded jewelry at fair prices, and then sells it online, at gift shops (like the Naples Botanical Garden, Naples Zoo, Island Vision, Dallas Aquarium...) and at farmers markets. Women love to help other women by buying their handiwork. The things are so beautiful they are easy to sell, and volunteers are the sales reps. Then, they go beyond this and give the artisans water filters, school supplies for their kids, and assistance to improve their lives.
Our family has worked with Miracles In Action for several years. This organization has welcomed OUR family into THEIR family. It has allowed us to focus our desire to give and has shown us what giving can achieve. Our youngest child was adopted from Guatemala nine years ago, and we have always felt a connection with the country of our daughter’s birth. This organization has impressed us by the scope of their programs in Guatemala and the relationships with people and organizations “in country” that they have established. Its most impressive achievements have been how they have been able to create large projects, like building schools and partnering to create vocational institutions, while also providing assistance to individual families by way of teaching skills that will help each unique village. An example of these acts may include giving water purifiers to the villagers, along with lessons on the importance of proper hygiene. There is also constant dialogue with the villagers about proper nutrition, coupled with lessons on which native foods can provide superior nutrients when blended into the food already found in their culture.
We have found that MIA has successfully created a bridge for those here in the States, that have the desire and resources to help, to participate in the process of assistance. MIA is always cognizant that the donor wishes to be informed how their gifts are being used, but always stays true to their mission to not impose changes within the culture of the recipients, but rather work with them to discuss the most effective and respectful way to reach their common goals.
Perhaps one of the aspects of MIA that we find most attractive is that the organization offers "a hand up", not "a hand out". This important facet of their mission allows the beautiful people of Guatemala to maintain their dignity, while teaching them valuable skills that will eventually cause them to be, not only self-sufficient, but successful.
Miracles In Action has been a blessing for our family. We could not be happier to be involved with an organization that welcomes all those who want to help and inspires all those that have the pleasure of working with them. We consider ourselves fortunate to have met Penny Rambacher and Miracles In Action
I have known Miracles founder Penny since she began working in Guatemala with Airline Ambassadors and before she founded Miracles. I know of no other charity where you can make a donation and then get to see where it goes. Build a school and you are there for the opening. Donate a stove and you can see the home it is installed in. Miracles makes sustainable aid in Guatemala that makes a difference in every life it touches.
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From the early days of taking shoes, toys and blankets, this charity has progressed to building schools, vocational training, libraries, clean water and wells for villages, vented cooking stoves, family planning and so much more. I know of no other charity where 100% of your donation goes to the project you support and if you contribute to build a school, you as the donor get to go and see what you have built and see the gratitude of every child and adult in the village you have helped. Penny, the founder and CEO of Miracles is an amazing lady with so much vision for a brighter tomorrow for Guatemala with the sustainable aid she provides.
It is awesome to see how this organization is impacting Guatemala. You can actually see the difference they are making and how they leaving a legacy for children
This organization is truly amazing! It is making a difference impacting many lives in Guatemala! Very unique and heart warming. I am glad to be a part of Miracles in Action and be making a difference in my local community as well as empowering mayan women!
I have been closely involved with Miracles in Action from its very inception, and have observed them become more and more focused and professional. Their personal commitment, however, has never flagged for one instant, and all of their staff and many volunteers do everything they can to reduce costs, raise money, and pass the maximum on to the deserving beneficiaries, who in turn have put their own "sweat equity" and skin in the game. Having lived in Guatemala for over 20 years, and been involved in similar work to that of Miracles in Action, I can say I am a supporter and a financial donor as well.
Miracles in Action provides a wonderful opportunity to give help to the people of Guatemala.
Under the direction of Penny Rambacher, forty seven schools have been built in less than ten years!
Backpacks and school supplies are often provided. I was thrilled to see what a difference this makes
in the lives of the families of San Jose Xepatan.
While I visited the area many other needs developed. Penny's knowledge helped improve these conditions. We installed water purification systems, promoted nutrition education, delivered
a wheelchair and an operation to improve a child's mobility was planned. We made a visit to purchase products to sell from the women beaders as this elevates their status. Lunch was at a vocational school which Miracles in Action supports. I just wish I could be there when the many toys and clothing items are delivered at Christmas. All of the money we contribute goes directly to the people of Guatemala.
I am impressed with Miracles In Action. They put every penny of your donation to work helping the poor in rural Guatemala. Over the years I have seen the schools, the libraries, the water projects, the wood burning stoves, the nutritional education, the teacher education, and the warm clothing that they have given to the people of Guatemala. I am impressed with the dedication and the hard work of everyone associated with this charity and with the amazing results of their hard work in rural Guatemala.
Recently I had the opportunity to visit some of the communities where Miracles in Action works. I was struck by what a difference they've made in thousands of people's lives. They choose their partners and communities very thoughtfully, to have the biggest impact. They also listen closely to community leaders to find their greatest needs -- it's not a one-size-fits-all approach. What an effective way to change the world.
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What's impressed me most is about Miracles in Action is the breadth of services they're involved in--from building schools to providing clean water systems, safe stoves and nutrition education. I love that they work with local NGOs and seek sustainable, long-lasting solutions to the problems of rural poverty. And it's all done in the most frugal ways possible, stretching every dollar to provide the greatest impact.
I remember meeting the founder of this organization 2 years ago at a Nutrition Expo and getting intrigued by the information shown in their brochure. Everything happens for a reason; I got to know them better in the field and I just love how the website shows what they truly profess. I have seen it and experienced because I am now involved in this NGO, and it is a wonderful one.
I love the concept of "teaching how to fish" instead of handing out a fish...Building schools, libraries, installing wood stoves, providing clean water, helping future generations to have an opportunity to have a better life. These are some of the reasons for which I strongly support Mira les in Action. Needless to say, the fact that one hundred percent of the donation goes to the project, makes it a no brainier to choose this charity over any other in Guatemala or elsewhere. I've had the opportunity to meet board members, partners and donors and they are all people with a desire to work for others enthusiastically and with a lot of love. I wish there were more stars to give this great charity.
I really like that 100% of the donations go directly to the projects. I'm involved in this organization in many capacities, but writing as a donor, I feel that my donation makes a true impact! I like to see how lives are changed and improved with our donor dollars. A little bit goes a long way, as funds are directed to on-the-ground projects without bureaucracy and red tape bogging down progress.
This organization just keeps getting better and better. First by providing basic needs, then building schools, installing safe stoves, water systems and the big one, teaching people about nutrition. This enables the people to plant foods that give them a much more stable and nutrious diet. Much Better for children especially in their formitive years.
The list of accomplishments goes on and on. They also partner with other groups which enable them all to do more fr the people of Guatemala.
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My volunteer work with Penny has been very rewarding Just to see the pictures of the smiling childrfen's faces when they get a new school or a backpack; the mothers who get a new stove in their home; the women with sewing machines -- and the men working hard on building their new schools! We give so little and they get so much. I have not been to Guatemala but hope to visit soon. This is an example of one determined woman can do!
Having partnered with Miracles in Action for the last two years in Guatemala, I can say with confidence that Miracles in Action is doing some of the most groundbreaking work in nutrition in the country. Specifically, their work with the native superfood Chaya is changing thousands of lives across the coutnry, and specifically in the Coast where my nonprofit works I am seeing the direct benefits - families gaining empowerment and food security, while seeing with their own eyes children growing stronger and better thanks to increased nutrient intake. One of the best things Miracles in Action has going for it is their dedication to partnerships and sharing best practices. Penny and Christie are excellent at conencting you to the right person, institution, univeristy or otherwise that has adequate technical knowledge and research for various interventions. They find whats working, and then they take to as many organizations as they can, to reach as many people as they can. I'm proud to partner with Miracles in Action, a truly Great Nonprofit!
Miracles in Action has become more and more of a leader in the field of non-profits in Guatemala. Their work with the nutritious native plant, Chaya, for instance has taken off immensely. Through developing a strong technical understanding, great relationships, and building good materials, they have helped tens of thousands of new chaya trees be planted by farmers and organizations across the whole country. I know of many projects by other organizations that would have cost much more and never got to the same results. The key behind their success is that their team is incredibly dedicated to their mission and to making the relationships that help them execute that mission. Talking with Penny and Christie at their Antigua office is like speed-reading someone's linked-in account. You get connections from newspapers to scientists to donors to communities. They not only develop their own projects but help other charities to multiply the work, which has brought them great relationships and a lot of success.
My family and I are humanitarians/missionaries working in Guatemala, we have been here for 5 years now.
We have been working closely with Miracles in Action for about 1-1/2 years now, and are nothing short of AMAZED!
Miracles in Action has enabled us, through funds and assistance, to construct a beautiful school. As well they have enabled us to provide potable, clean drinking water to numerous villages. They have provided funding for many smokeless stoves. They have provided funding for fruit trees and nutritious plants and seeds. The list goes on and on.
Through all of this they have been incredible! All of the people at Miracles have been a pleasure to work with, and a priceless resource! They offer not only funding, but also access to limitless resources, with people and studies. Their staff here in Guatemala work closely with us, and provide ongoing support. They are pleasurable in everything, and have such amazing hearts for serving! The level of commitment from all members is second to none!
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I have been working in conjunction with Miracles in Action, in Guatemala, for about a year now. Over the last few years, we have "crossed paths" with quite a number of non-profits, both at home in North America as well as in Guatemala. I have to say, as a family who is doing similar work, it has been FANTASTIC meeting other people who share the same hearts and minds to make a real difference!! From the board members right to all the people in the field, they are not only all committed physically, but it is so obvious in all their actions that their hearts are genuinely 100% in everything as well!! The work that they do is definitely a great example of "hand up", as they are constantly searching for long-term, sustainable ways to make a REAL difference!! They have been very instrumental in assisting us with various agriculture/nutrition initiatives, as well as simply encouragement and love. Penny and Christie both are constantly, readily available for anything we need, and surpass every level of commitment one can imagine. Pedro, on the field in Guatemala, constantly displays his amazing heart for serving the poor, as well as his love for our planet, which is also very important in all that we are doing! Over all, if every organization operated as Miracles in Action Inc does, I am confident that our world would be a completely different, much better place!! Thank you so much Penny, Christie, and Pedro!!!!
Literacy is important to Miracles in Action. They built a library in the remote Mayan village of Xojola Guatemala where there is also a community clinic that is visited a few times a year by international medical teams. Books and possibly some computers will be arriving this year and the library gives this village a unique opportunity that would not otherwise be available by providing a safe, dry, and secure place to house the materials donated.
Our family's foundation has given to many non-profits over the past 15 year but only at Miracles in Action does 100% of your contribution go to those in need. Miracles in Action covers it's own expenses through separate yard sales and fund raisers. This is incredible and unprecedented in the non-profit world, but so true of Penny.
I have known the Founders of this organization for many years. They believe in both "giving a fish" and "teaching to fish." They provide locally accessible nutritional substances and safe cook stoves to bring necessities and they build schools and supply teachers and supplies to promote advancements for the Mayans, all with no salaries or stipends for themselves. They also work well with other like-minded organizations for the behalf of the Mayans.
I spent some time with a few members of Miracles In Action and got to learn a lot about it. They are SO knowledgable in their missions and you can tell that they are extremely passionate about the people they serve. They all have huge hearts and are over the top compassionate and generous. I couldn't feel more privileged to have spent time with them in their missions. Thank you to MIA for all you do!
I became involved with Miracles in Action after my son and his wife adopted two boys from Guatemala at the age of 15 months. I "work" at the farm market selling the jewelry, purses, and other artifacts made by the Mayan women of Guatemala. It has been my pleasure to be associated with this great group of honest and hard-working people. Knowing that our efforts are helping to build schools, libraries, water systems, and other self-sustainable projects is very gratifying. It is a wonderful organization and I am very grateful to be a part of it. Pat D.
I truly appreciate all the work being done in Guatemala to improve the lives of the Mayan people. As as educator, I totally believe that the "road oout of poverty' is by educating the populace. Bu working with the local population, giving them what they know they need, and offering education in a variety of formats, progress is being made in this region. I have recently donated what is a significant amount of money in terms of my family's income, because I know it will be put to good use.
WAYS TO MAKE IT BETTER...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Have it grow so that it has "chapters" across the USA
MORE FEEDBACK...
I have volunteered for many charities in my life, but MIA has captured my heart.
It provides the most basic needs for the marginalized Mayans in Guatamala. The
concept of Hand Up NOT Hand Out is appealing because it allows the native people
to retain their dignity while learning how to improve their quality of life. The
best part is that 100% of the donations go to MIA projects to provide clean
water, safe stoves, better nutrition and education for the children. The
operation is very effective because so much has been accomplished in such a
short time. I have recommended this group to all of my friends.
MIA came into my life in Jan 2013 when I was invited to join Penny and her group to visit the "bottle schools"that MIA has been helping the Mayan villagers build. The " miracle" was in the smiling faces of the children and parents and in the promise of a better life through education and health. Also impressive ws the fact that 100% of their donations go toward buying water filters and vented stoves etc which are made locally.I was very impressed with the enthusiasm and dedication of the many young workers we met there especially Pedro Rodriguez who has been successfully promoting the growing and cooking of highly nutritious local plants and grains. Thank you Penny Christie Pedro and all the other volunteers. You are my #1 charity among all others. Jolex
I became involved with Miracles In Action on a trip to Guatemala where this wonderful group of hard working, dedicated, individuals had just built a school for the improvrished people there. Miracles In Action works directly with the villagers on projects and one of it's goals is to get the Mayan people to eventually sustain their own living. The people participate in the many charitible endeavors Miracles undertakes such as Clean water systems, safe cooking stoves, nutritional education and sustenance farming , and providing the Artisans an outlet to sell their beautiful beaded jewelry and woven crafts, among many other worthwhile projects.
The difference this organization is making is impressive since approximately 40 schools have been built in the last ten years and hundreds of poor people with no real future are now given hope.
i witnessed the gratitude and pure joy on the faces of the little children , and parents, when given school supplies and ushered into their new classrooms . Prior to their new school the children sat on a dirt floor with classroom walls made of corn stalks.
With patience, love and determination, Miracles In Action is touching lives of others and making a difference. Isn't that what life is all about?
Two women, with the dream of helping the less fortunate, saw the need in Guatemala and BEGAN!
Where many of us, I dare to say most of us, just dream, Penny Rambacher and her mom began moving mountains and now, from their dedication, is the outgrowth of this most wonderful organization.
Martin Luter King said " The big question we must all answer in life is, what are you doing for others"
Miracles In Action is chance for all of us to give back.
I have known about Miracles in Action for at least 6 years or so and had made smaller donations. Last November I was moved to make a more significant donation, and was stunned to be invited to Guatemala to see how my donation would help in the building of schools, and generally improving life for villagers there. Penny Rambacher, Christie Brown, and Pedro gave me and two others a personalized tour for a week. I am so impressed by the networking that this group does, and was happy to meet so many other dedicated people, and also have the opportunity to meet the locals in their homes- families who struggle to give the best they can to their improve their living standards with the help they receive. I learned so much of the history and the civil war there. Miracles is trying to reintroduce native crops, like chia and chaya, back to the land and people. It is my intent to continue supporting this wonderful group, especially with 100% of contributions going directly to projects.
Miracles in Action is supporting excellent programs from a wide variety of sectors in Guatemala, all working towards an overall goal of improving the human condition of the Guatemalan people. I am particularly proud of the work they are doing in Food Security with the indigenous plant Chaya. Its a super food, like the Kale of Central America, that is easily grown, native to the area, and can help combat some of the world's worst malnutrition. Best of all, Miracles in Action is teaching families how to grow it themselves so that they can take charge of their own development and poverty alleviation. I am proud to be a partner and friend to those at Miracles in Action, they are truly a Great Non-profit!
I truly appreciate all the work being done in Guatemala to improve the lives of the Mayan people. As as educator, I totally believe that the "road oout of poverty' is by educating the populace. Bu working with the local population, giving them what they know they need, and offering education in a variety of formats, progress is being made in this region. I have recently donated what is a significant amount of money in terms of my family's income, because I know it will be put to good use.
I have volunteered for many charities in my life, but MIA has captured my heart. It provides the most basic needs for the marginalized Mayans in Guatamala. The concept of Hand Up NOT Hand Out is appealing because it allows the native people to retain their dignity while learning how to improve their quality of life. The best part is that 100% of the donations go to MIA projects to provide clean water, safe stoves, better nutrition and education for the children. The operation is very effective because so much has been accomplished in such a short time. I have recommended this group to all of my friends.
Miracles in Action touches lives in highly significant ways. With a very small overhead, donations are able to go directly to the people in need. I have been in Guatemala to see the work Miracles in Action is doing....building schools in remote villages, teaching the people to grow sustainable high-impact foods, providing wells and sustainable cooking methods. They really do partner with the people on the ground in creative, effective, efficient ways. The collaboration Miracles in Action achieves with other non-profits makes a donor's gift really hit the target. They do not "reinvent" the wheel. They connect with people who are already in service and know the needs and how to best address them.
Miracles in Action is a supporter of the work that we do on the ground in Guatemala and through their organization, many young people have been empowered to stand-up and become change-makers within their communities, working together towards a more sustainable future. I have also seen the impact that Miracle's other projects - particularly around innovative approaches to nutrition, sustainable agriculture and their fair-trade support of the cottage industry - are really changing peoples lives. The Miracles team continues to ask questions and seek ways to have a real, sustainable influence on improving peoples lives and it has been a pleasure to work with their team and partner up to help further that work. Thanks Miracles!!!
I am a long-time volunteer with Miracles in Action. It's a fantastic organization that does all they can to keep their overhead very low so they can maximize the amount that goes directly to the work they do in Guatemala with some of the poorest of the poor. They empower the local people and give them a hand-up, not a hand-out, providing education, training, and health.
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I am proud to be a volunteer with Miracles in Action. When I was looking for a group that was working with the poorest areas in Guatemala, I found Miracles in Action on the internet and was impressed by their mission and outlook. I called an talked to the founder, Penny Rambacher, and was even more impressed. I was able to volunteer with them selling Guatemalan handicrafts in the U. S. and being a photographer and translator during openings of schools and a vocation center that they funded in Guatemala. I appreciate their attitude of giving a hand up, not just a hand out. They do everything they can to keep overhead low so that funding goes to providing materials and employment options to locals.
After my first experiment checking out and getting to know the team and their work in Guatemala I felt this was a part of a magical-spiritual experience, it was surprisingly great. To be able to see how this organization and their group of volunteers are managing to get the help from the must generous and big hearted people in the US to the beautiful people in need in this country rich in human resources and so poor economically and educationally speaking. Their programs on education, nutrition and beyond the fair trade are very smart approaches to solutions in every area, always thinking in sustainable programs and looking to the future not only to the challenges of today.
Coming to know Miracles in Action through the mission committee at my church, I have found a way, through volunteering, to help make a difference to extremely needy and underserved third-world people. It has been amazing to watch miracles keep on happening.
This is such a great organization that is making an everlasting change on many lives. They have a great mission and have already accomplished so much. Everyone that I've meet is extremely knowledgable and very dedicated to their work.
Miracles in Action is a great organization that leaves a lifelong impact by Guatemalans. There is much commitment to bettering the lives of these people and do great things for their society.
I have been impressed with everyone I have met who works with Miracles in Action. They are committed to making a real and long-term difference in Guatemala through education. They also work to meet short term needs, from nutrition education to giving out eyeglasses.
Sponsoring a school and leaving that legacy was a wonderful and fulfilling experience. The impact on the village and those families was so heartfelt.
In January 2012 I went to Guatemala for 2 1/2 weeks to study Spanish. I was told by a friend that during the time of my visit, there would be a new school opened by the organization Miracles in Action. I played hooky from my Spanish studies for the day and traveled with the group to the school opening. What warmed my heart so much was not how the Miracles in Action group felt about what they were doing, but how the locals felt about being the recipient of this new school - they were truly grateful and appreciative for this gift and hopeful for their children's futures. Miracles in Action is really making a difference in people's lives now and building better lives for future generations.
Christie and the volunteers at Miracles in Action have touched so many lives. This is an incredible organization and continues to need help and support. Great job for all of your hard work in Guatemala!
When my husband and I retired we wanted to donate to projects where we could see the results of our donations. After one trip to Guatemala and seeing the extremely poor children and their families, we wanted to help. Since then, my husband and I have funded many projects in Guatemala with Miracles In Action. Our favorites involve funding schools, vocational centers and workshop and the Teacher Training/Resource Center and of course scholarships for the older students. We love it that 100% of our donation goes to the projects. It is nice to know that even if you don't have millions to donate, you can still create a Miracle in the life of poor children in Guatemala with your donation to Miracles In Action, Inc.
I am involved in multiple charities as the head of a school service learning group. Miracles in Action is truly one of my favorites. It meets all of the criteria that I demand of a group which I/we support. It is based on the needs of the population and has been able to do so, by finding out what is wanted by the population that MIA serves, and then working to meet that need. Monies raised are well managed- as seen by the numerous schools, water projects, stoves etc.
I went to Guatemala at the request of MIA to evaluate their schools program and to provide teacher education. As I've come to know this organization, it is amazing to see what a handful of dedicated volunteers can accomplish! Since the first trip, MIA has continued to provide a high level of teacher training and opened a resource center. The resource center provides materials to schools in rural areas where teachers and students have nothing...and I mean nothing!
I am a volunteer, donor and help on the extended board of this incredible organization. This is a story of how 2 people, with a heart and a purpose can make a difference in the world.
Helping children become educated about the possibilities in the world vs. the poverty they see; giving mothers the ability to earn a living in their home while caring for their children; manifesting newly designed stoves so families can eat without the fear of being burned and scared; having water in the village vs. having to walk 10 miles with 35 pound water buckets of the mother's head all but a few of the things this charity ensures for the Guatemalan families they serve.
Instead of standing around wondering what they could do, Penny and her Mom found a need and addressed it with a strategy of sustainability. Penny, now continues the journey in her Mom's memory as she helps these families become
a part of a new possibility of life.
It is heart warming to see the results of their efforts. 29+ schools in 5 years and more on the way. My husband and I are so impressed with Penny's efforts and feel so blessed to be involved, we have pledged school #33.
We also use this charity to teach our children and grandchildren about giving vs. receiving; about paying it forward. This year they all honored us with a gift to Miracles for Chirstmas. It was the best gift ever for two reasons: 1) Penny got some support for her efforts 2) but our children and grandchildren have shown they have learned a life lesson - what more could parents or grandparents ask then to have taught your children/grandchilren something as great as giving!
God Bless Miracles in Action and God Bless Penny and all the volunteers and Supporters about the globe!
I first got involved with Miracles in Action as a donor because I believed in their mission of helping the poorest of the poor to help themselves. After going to Guatemala several times, and seeing how Miracles in Action stretches the dollar and 100% of donation dollars go directly toward the project, I wanted to do even more. I am the donor for school #15 in Hue Hue and am now on the board of directors. I have never seen an organization of more dedicated volunteers. There are no Miracles in Action employees. We are volunteer run. We take donors to see their projects so they can see where every dollar goes. This organization truly helps the poor through education, vocation, and sustainable projects.
I joined Miracles in Action on a trip to Guatemala in January 2007 and was so impressed with their networking, dedication, knowledge and ability to get real sustainable projects done. Also impressive is that 100% of donations go toward projects -- the minimal overhead is paid by selling Guatemalan handicrafts -- which not only pays for the small overhead, but also gives jobs to the women who make the crafts.